Integrating biocatalysis with chemocatalysis for selective transformations

Curr Opin Chem Biol. 2020 Apr:55:161-170. doi: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2020.02.004. Epub 2020 Mar 13.

Abstract

The integration of biocatalysis with chemocatalysis combines the excellent selectivity of the former with the robust reactivity of the latter and offers many advantages, such as lower cost, higher yield, enhanced selectivity, as well as less waste generation. In spite of the challenge of incompatibilities between different classes of catalysts, recent advances in synthetic chemistry and biology provide ample opportunities for multistep cascade transformations that combine biocatalysis and chemocatalysis. Herein, we review recent progress in merging biocatalysis with chemocatalysis, highlighting selected examples of photo-/electricity-driven biotransformations and recently developed strategies for addressing the catalyst incompatibility issue.

Keywords: Biocatalysis; Cascade reactions; Chemocatalysis; Synergistic effect.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amination
  • Aminobutyrates / chemical synthesis
  • Biocatalysis
  • Biotransformation
  • Catalysis
  • Coordination Complexes / chemistry*
  • Electrochemical Techniques
  • Enzymes / metabolism*
  • Molecular Structure
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Photochemical Processes
  • Stereoisomerism
  • Transition Elements / chemistry*

Substances

  • Aminobutyrates
  • Coordination Complexes
  • Enzymes
  • Transition Elements